The Falealili bus driver who was charged with causing the death of two people in a crash in Malifa is likely to change his plea in a bargain deal to amend the charges made against him. 

Togamataimoana Vaea, the driver of the Laumoso’oi bus that crashed into a Hyundai Tucson leading to the death of two elderly men, appeared in the Supreme Court this week.

Represented by lawyer Unasa Iuni Sapolu, the defendant had pleaded not guilty to 37 charges in October last year. 

He is facing two counts of motor manslaughter, two counts of negligent driving causing death, 31 counts of driving causing injuries, one count of careless driving, and one count of driving an unlicensed vehicle. 

The two men who died after sustaining injuries following the crash were aged 64 and 66 years.

Unasa told the court there was a likelihood that the defendant would change his plea once the negotiation over charges with the prosecution was finalised. 

Supreme Court Judge Justice Fepuleai Ameperosa Roma adjourned the matter for mention on 24 June to allow the prosecution and the defence to discuss the change in charges. 

The defendant remains on bail until his next court appearance. 

Following the bus crash in October last year, the Land Transport Authority confirmed the bus in question was unfit for public transportation.

Subsequently, the Laumoso’oi Transport Company which had been in operation for more than 40 years, made the decision to halt its services until further notice.